Álvaro Siza’s Portugal Pavilion at Expo 98 Reopens with a New Purpose

DATE

14.05.2025

The building, which once symbolized Portugal’s entry into the new millennium, is renowned for its striking concrete canopy that appears to float between two restrained volumes, creating a monumental shaded space. The restoration of the pavilion not only preserves a landmark of Portuguese architecture, but also reaffirms the relevance of its timeless, site-rooted design language.

Its author, Álvaro Siza—one of the most influential architects of the 20th century and recipient of the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 1992—is widely celebrated for his ability to engage with context and for his commitment to simplicity, light, and materiality. The relationship between Siza and the postgraduate school MArch Valencia is particularly significant, as he has been one of its most influential educational figures. His humanist approach and design precision continue to inspire each new generation of architects at MArch.

Each year, students of the MArch Advanced program in architecture, design, and business administration travel to Lisbon for a one-week intensive workshop at Aires Mateus, one of the most prominent architectural studios on the international scene. This hands-on experience offers insight into the creative processes of a leading firm, while immersing students in Portuguese architectural culture and expanding their professional networks in a global setting.

During their stay, many students take advantage of their free time to visit the Portugal Pavilion, one of Siza’s most iconic works. Experiencing the building’s scale, atmosphere, and materiality firsthand provides a unique opportunity to deeply understand the architecture of one of the great contemporary masters. In this sense, the trip to Lisbon not only enriches academic training but also connects students directly to the living history of modern architecture.

MARCH VALENCIA | ARQUITECTURA Y DISEÑO

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